Manchester, United Kingdom – Manchester City has entered into a long-term partnership with BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicle (NEV) technology. The collaboration will see players from both the men’s and women’s teams, including stars like Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Gianluigi Donnarumma, utilizing BYD’s electric vehicles, including those from its luxury sub-brand, Denza, for club operations.
The partnership extends beyond simple vehicle supply. A BYD electric vehicle will lead the Manchester City team bus onto the pitch at the Etihad Stadium for Premier League and domestic competition home matches, creating a visible symbol of the club’s commitment to sustainability. BYD’s logo will be prominently displayed on the sleeve of the men’s first team training kit, with the women’s team set to feature the branding next season. BYD branding will be visible around the player dugouts at the Etihad Stadium.
This isn’t merely a branding exercise. BYD will leverage its expertise in new energy solutions to enhance the City Football Academy, the club’s state-of-the-art training facility. The academy will be equipped with BYD’s vehicle charging infrastructure and energy storage systems, furthering the club’s sustainability initiatives.
“This partnership is more than just football or mobility. It’s about inspiring people around the world through exciting technology, connecting, and driving a more sustainable future,” stated Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD.
BYD’s journey began three decades ago as a battery manufacturer, evolving to launch its first new energy vehicle in 2008 – the world’s first mass-produced plug-in hybrid. Today, the company stands as a global NEV leader, boasting record sales of electric vehicles and Super Hybrid PHEVs in over 110 countries. BYD recently celebrated the production of its 15 millionth new energy vehicle in December 2025, and achieved global sales of 4.6 million vehicles in the same year, with one million units sold internationally.
Innovation is at the core of BYD’s success, fueled by a dedicated team of 120,000 research and development engineers who file an average of 45 new patents daily. This commitment to technological advancement is a key factor in Manchester City’s decision to partner with the company.
“As a club, we are driven by a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation. We partner with industry leaders to create a more environmentally sustainable future, starting with the facilities we own,” said Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive Officer at City Football Group. “What we have is why we are so proud to be BYD’s partner of choice and are committed to working together for a better and more sustainable future throughout this multi-year partnership.”
The partnership signifies a growing trend within the football world towards embracing sustainability and aligning with companies at the forefront of green technology. Manchester City’s move reflects a broader industry shift, as clubs increasingly recognize the importance of reducing their environmental impact and appealing to a growing base of environmentally conscious fans.
BYD’s involvement extends beyond simply providing vehicles and charging infrastructure. The integration of energy storage solutions at the City Football Academy demonstrates a commitment to a holistic approach to sustainability, optimizing energy usage and reducing reliance on traditional power sources. This aspect of the partnership could serve as a model for other clubs looking to enhance their environmental credentials.
The choice of BYD as a partner also highlights Manchester City’s strategic focus on global markets. BYD’s expanding international presence, particularly in key regions, aligns with the club’s own ambitions to broaden its global fanbase and commercial reach. The partnership provides a platform for both organizations to leverage each other’s brand recognition and market access.
The inclusion of the Denza brand within the partnership is noteworthy. Denza represents BYD’s premium electric vehicle offering, signaling Manchester City’s desire to associate with a brand that embodies luxury, innovation, and sustainability. This association could further enhance the club’s image and appeal to a discerning audience.
Looking ahead, the partnership between Manchester City and BYD has the potential to evolve beyond the initial scope. Collaboration on research and development projects, joint marketing initiatives, and the exploration of new sustainable technologies could further strengthen the relationship and drive innovation in both the sports and automotive industries.
